Having visited Jamie’s Italian restaurant in Manchester previously, I fortunately knew that it was conveniently located at the top side of King Street in what was the former home of the Midland Bank. The rather grand and impressive Grade II listed building has retained many of its endearing qualities which include a private dining area in the old vault… perfect for a stylish party!

We were there to try out the Super Lunch Menu, which for £12.95 for two courses or £14.95 for three, it really is good value for money and only the day after we had returned from a trip away it was just what we needed!

What we ate:

Puffed Up Pork Cracklings (£3.95) – I am a big fan of pork scratchings and they are a fantastic snack for anyone who is following the Keto lifestyle. The cracklings were uber crispy and dipped in the tangy tomato sauce were a great side dish to start with.

Bread Basket (£3.95) – Just like myself, Mini Me loves to start a meal with bread, we are clearly carb monsters! With a slice each of three different breads and a stunning tapenade dip that was sublime – and rather easy to make according to our helpful server Chris… I shall take his word for it!

From the Super Lunch Menu…

Fritto Misto – The fish and squid was succulent and tender, the batter thin, yet crispy. The dish was plentiful and every bite left you wanting more. The garlic and lemon aioli was the perfect complement for this dish, with the fish pieces coated in paprika offering a little added kick to each bite.

‘Nduja Rigatoni – Fresh pasta tossed through a spicy tomato and ‘Nduja sauce with sprouting broccoli and cherry tomatoes finished with aged Parmesan and extra virgin olive oil called out to me as the perfect carb filled dish before jumping back into the Keto lifestyle. Whilst the dish was flavoursome to a point, I actually found it to be far too ‘wet’ for want of a better explanation. There was a lot of juice residue with the dish which put me off finishing the meal. For the price of the Super Lunch Menu, I cannot really complain too much however I would choose a different main course in future.

From the Children’s Menu…

Baby Organic Beef Burger (£6.95) – For a child’s burger meal, this was fantastic value for money… and at last, a restaurant that serves a salad with a child’s dish! The burger (which was seriously yummy according to Mini Me) came in a seeded bun with a lemon yoghurt, lettuce and tomato, with sweet potato fries and a fresh Shake-Me salad in a cute kilner jar. As a parent, I did really appreciate the salad which comes with ALL children’s main meals.

Warm Chocolate Brownie (£1.50) – The face that states ‘Hurry up Mum, I just want to eat my dessert!’ – complete with vanilla ice cream, crunchy toffee popcorn and chocolate sauce, this was definitely the highlight for Mini Me as she tucked into her dessert without taking breath… I assume it was yummy, I cannot say I even got a look in!

For 1pm on a Monday during the summer holidays, the restaurant was quite busy and it is recommended that you book a table for your party in advance for this reason. The Jamie’s Italian Super Lunch Menu is fantastic value for money, as is the children’s menu with a main meal also including a drink. Until August 31st children can enjoy a free meal with every adult main meal ordered using the code KIDSTP – make sure you mention this to your server!

The atmosphere inside the restaurant is lively and even when full it still has an intimate feel. I didn’t find we needed to wait to be served and Chris, our friendly server was very knowledgeable on the food choices. We will return soon, it’s a great rest stop after a day shopping in Manchester and I’m looking forward to trying something else from the menu.

If you are looking to book a meal at the restaurant, you can use the easy use booking form on the Jamie’s Italian website.